Eternal Sunshine of an Empty Mind

Happy Birthday, Monkey

noreply@blogger.com (Eternal Sunshine) — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 13:23:00 +0000

It's been a busy year for you.

There's been a little rest and a lot of play

You're always up for a little rain dancing

You started First Grade this year

You became a Cub Scout

There was a little pouting

A lot of proud moments

Some moments to remember

A few daredevil moments

And a lot of smiles

Happy Birthday Little Man.

I hope you enjoy your seventh year as much as I've enjoyed the rest.

Love, Momma

Who's that girl??

noreply@blogger.com (Eternal Sunshine) — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 17:10:00 +0000

Yes, I know, it has been a while. I haven't blogged in WAY too long. I'm going to go ahead and confess that my Reader is WELL above 1000 unread's as well, so if you've been feeling neglected lately, it's completely my fault.

Well, for my first post in ages, I thought I would get you all up to speed on what's been going on in the Sunshine household, with PICTURES!!!

This could take a while.

The Tiger Cubs toured Mrs. Baird's Bakery in Ft. Worth

We had a funeral. Pop passed away in January. It was a very rough time for Budman and the boys. We're hanging in there, though.

Mater had a stomach bug and fell asleep in his toast. He's feeling MUCH better now.

The Tiger Cubs took a tour of the Fort Worth Star Telegram printing operations.

Monkey, Mater and I took a trip to the Zoo in Waco with Copper's Fox, the Tater tot and our parents.

I have to share this video - it was SO funny.

Monkey entered his first Pinewood Derby for Cub Scouts - Recognize anyone??

My Valentine's Day present!!

I got a new haircut!!

We dog-sat for my MIL. I took this video of her dog, Shadow playing in our backyard.

Monkey went to his first Blue & Gold Banquet for Cub Scouts
And tomorrow is Monkey's 7th Birthday. He is having a party at a local pizza place, and I will share photos soon.

I have a few stories that I'm trying to keep in my head, I've been wanting to blog for a while, but as you can see - things have been pretty busy here.

I also promise, I will be catching up with my reader as soon as I can, hope you are all doing well.

Eternal Sunshine

Quick note!

noreply@blogger.com (Eternal Sunshine) — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 15:18:00 +0000

I will be spending the next week or two training my replacement at work. So, there won't be any blogging going on.

Hang in there, I will be back as soon as possible!! And I'll have a whole lot more time on my hands, it seems.

Also, you lovely ladies who are expecting surprises, will need to be patient with me for a little while longer. Please?? I will be sending something, but it won't be for another few days...

Thanks!!

Have a great week

And the winners are...

noreply@blogger.com (Eternal Sunshine) — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 03:19:00 +0000

Since I only had five entries, and I'm still in a giving mood from Christmas, I will be sending each of you a surprise.

So, FADKOG, CoppersFox, MerrieMelody, Jewels, and PlanetofJanet...

You all get a surprise!!

Still not telling what it is, you'll just have to wait.

So, send me your addresses (except for you, CoppersFox - I have yours)

Happy New Years!!!

And we’ll tak a cup o’ kindness yet

noreply@blogger.com (Eternal Sunshine) — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 18:14:00 +0000

OK, so I was all set to quit slacking, and do my post-Christmas post. I checked my purse and I had the cord for my camera! Bonus - I was all set to get pictures (the few that I took) of my little ones checking out the goodies that Santa had brought. Wait, where's my camera??

Crappe.

So, instead, you will be getting this list - a sort of 2008 in review, if you will, which I stole from... somewhere - Dawn @ Because I Said So, I believe.

1. What did you do in 2008 that you’d never done before?
Went to my first Cub Scout meeting.

2. Did you keep your New Years’ resolutions, and will you make more for next year? Actually, 2008 was the first year that I decided not to make New Year's Resolutions. I'm thinking I might make some for the year coming up, not sure what, yet...

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?
No, although I did find out a (soon to be ex-) coworker is finally pregnant, after trying for 3 or 4 months, and driving us all crazy each time she "started". Good for her.

4. Did anyone close to you die?
My uncle M was killed in a suspicious fire this year. I didn't talk about it much at the time, and it's still an open case, but we don't have much hope of ever finding out who would have done such a horrible thing to him.

5. What countries did you visit?
I actually didn't even leave the state this year, but they do say that Texas is "like a whole 'nuther country", so does that count?? I did drive all the way to the Waco area a few times.

6. What would you like to have in 2009 that you lacked in 2008?
~~smaller thighs and @ss.~~ I would like to have a better job, a new (to me) home, and to get a lot further towards my degree. Each time I pass a Computer class, I get a certification, which looks good on my resume. I might even be able to convince potential employers I know what I'm doing if I keep it up!

7. What dates from 2008 will remain etched upon your memory?
I don't think there are any specific dates. Mother's Day and my Birthday were pretty great.

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?
I developed a cure for Cancer, and negotiated a peace treaty between Australia and New Zealand. It's a toss-up.

Or, it could have been keeping this little guy (and his siblings) alive long enough to release them to the wild.

9. What was your biggest failure?
Not doing more in school. I can set my own progress with this program, and I only did the bare minimum requirements instead of going above and beyond. I'm really annoyed at myself for that.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?
Well, besides the PLAGUE that Budman and I are currently suffering from, I have been remarkable healthy. Although I do have this giant zit that just won't go away...

11. What was the best thing you bought?
Budman's boat. Oh, you meant for me??? I don't buy things for myself - I could, I just always think of other things to spend money on. For the kids, etc... And we do ALL get to use the boat.

12. Whose behavior merited celebration?
huh? I haven't killed anyone this year, so I'm gonna say ME!

13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
No one MADE me depressed this year.

14. Where did most of your money go?
gas

15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?
When fuel prices dropped below $2.00, and each subsequent drop after that. Yesterday, we filled up for $1.27 a gallon. I almost got out of the car and did a happy dance.

16. What song/album will always remind you of 2008?
Music is a huge part of me, but I didn't really listen to a lot of NEW music this year. I'm kind of stuck in a Classic rock/ 70s 80s & 90s rut lately.

17. Compared to this time last year, are you: happier/sadder, thinner/heavier, richer/poorer? I get happier every day. I'm a little heavier, and neither richer nor poorer than last year.

18. What do you wish you’d done more of?
sewing, crafting, playing.

19. What do you wish you’d done less of?
working, complaining

20. How will you be spending Christmas?
I spent Christmas with my family - surrounded by a mess, and relaxing all day long.

21. Who did you spend the most time on the phone with?
I spend as little time as possible on the phone, so, other than work people, I would have to say my Mom.

22. Did you fall in love in 2008?
I fall in love with Budman a little more everyday

23. How many one night stands in this last year?
Um, none. Or - lots of them, but all with the same person - My HUSBAND!

24. What was your favorite TV program?
Just one? I will never pass up an episode of The Unit, NCIS or CSI (any city). I loved Pushing Daisies and Life most of all.

25. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?
I don't waste energy hating people. It's too much work, and it poisons your heart.

26. What was the best book(s) you read?
I read a LOT of books. Most recently, The Book of Bright Ideas, by Sandra Kring, was one of my favorites.

27. What was your greatest musical discovery?
I got the Beatles back together for a World Tour.

28. What did you want and get?
My guys - all I'll ever need.

29. What did you want and not get?
THE purse - you know - the perfect handbag. Still searching for it.

30. What were your favorite films of this year?
In Bruges

31. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
I told all about my birthday here and I turned 34.

32. What's one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
Winning the lottery

33. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2008?
Slacker-Mom style.

34. What kept you sane?
Coincidentally, this is also what kept me Insane as well.

35. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
Can't think of a one.

36. What political issue stirred you the most?
Rising Fuel costs & drilling for oil, rising unemployment, the tanking economy

37. Who did you miss?
Bear

38. Who was the best new person you met?
My bloggy friends get this honor...

39. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2008.
It wasn't learned in 2008, but it's the one that I keep with me always: "You can't find happiness on a road map, you have to take it with you." A long overdue, hard-learned lesson, but then we kids never thought our parents knew anything when we were young and had all the answers.

40. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year?
Fat bottomed girls you make the rockin' world go round.
Kidding.

OK, if you've stuck with me this far, then you deserve a reward. I have been using Christmas song lyrics for my post titles this month (most of it). I'm sure you've noticed this, plus I announced it at the beginning. So, I'm gonna have a little giveaway.

Go back through my December posts (starting here - see, I'm so nice, helping you out like that...) and send me a list of all the Christmas song titles (There are 6) that I've used. Email it to me at MrsMStewart (AT) gmail (DOT) com. DO NOT post the answers in the comments, if you do, I will delete it. Email it to me. I will take all correct entries and randomly draw a someone to receive a little something special from me. Let's say that I'll keep this open until New Year's Eve at midnight (which is technically New Year's Day at that point, I know). So, you have the rest of the year to enter my little contest. I hope you will - Even if you don't normally enter contests and such, do it anyway, it will be fun!!!

A song, a song, high above the trees...

noreply@blogger.com (Eternal Sunshine) — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 20:00:00 +0000

Melody gave me an award! It's taken me forever to get my act together and post about it, but better late than never (I feel like I use that phrase a lot... Wonder if it would do any good to add "Quit procrastinating" to my list of New Year's Resolutions?)

"This blog invests and believes the in PROXIMITY - nearness in space, time and relationships! These blogs are exceedingly charming. These kind bloggers aim to find and be friends. They are not interested in prizes or self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these writers! Deliver this award to eight bloggers who must choose eight more and include this cleverly-written text into the body of their award."

Here are the bloggers I am giving this award to!

Georgie @ Decisionally Challenged

Debby @ Life's Funny Like That

DamamaT @ DaMama's at it Again!!

Jeana @ Days to Come

FADKOG @ For A Different Kind of Girl

SteenkyBee

Jay @ Halftime Lessons

Fox @ CoppersFox

There are so many worthwhile blogs in my reader, and I could have come up with at least 20 more to give this award to.

Have a Happy Monday...

Faithful friends who are dear to us...

noreply@blogger.com (Eternal Sunshine) — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 16:06:00 +0000

My friend Holly has a birthday today. Her birthday wish is to get 100 comments on her birthday post.

If you're not already one of her readers, would you please head on over to her place today and wish her a Happy Birthday?? Please go give her some birthday love...

I would greatly appreciate it!!

Whisper what you'll bring to me; tell me if you can

noreply@blogger.com (Eternal Sunshine) — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 15:20:00 +0000

Saturday, I took the boys (the little boys, Possum was invited, but politely declined) to see Santa at Mrs. Baird's Bakery. We've never gone there to see Santa before, but I'll never go anywhere else again. The folks at Mrs. Baird's REALLY know how to do it up right.

First, they have a giant tent set up, and inside, it's completely decorated. Santa's workshop displays line the walls, and smells of Cinnamon Toast filled the air.

Here's a picture of Monkey and Mater enjoying their free Cinnamon Toast. I didn't realize at the time, but in ALL of the Toast-eating photos I took, Mater had his eyes closed. I think he was just enjoying that food a little too much!!

Santa was amazing. Once the kids got up to see him, he spoke with them for a minute, posed for a picture, and gave them a package of powdered donuts from his pack.

More than once, I saw him straighten the skirt of a pretty dress as they placed a little girl in his lap, so that she would look just right in her picture. The lines weren't too long, and once we were done, the boys got their toast, and they had coloring pages and a craft activity for the kids to do. (Unfortunately, there were so many kids at the craft table, and I'm not comfortable posting pictures of other people's children.)

The only glitch in the whole day (other than the wind - Thank Heavens that they had it all set up inside the tent), was when we stopped off at PetSmart on our way home, where SANTA was there for pictures with pets. My smart boys, immediately wanted to know how Santa could be at this store, when we had just left the Bakery, and of course, I reminded them how Santa can't be everywhere at once, so he has helpers that work for him, speaking with kids, and taking pictures with pets, etc...

Later that day, while the boys were telling their Grammy all about Santa, she mentioned that SHE used to go see Santa at the Bakery when she was a little girl, so I guess Mrs. Baird's has been bringing in Santa for quite a few years.

I certainly hope they keep it up, I haven't had this great an experience going to see Santa since I was a little girl!!

And every mother's child is going to spy,

noreply@blogger.com (Eternal Sunshine) — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 18:58:00 +0000

I know, my titles don't have anything to do with my posts, but I'm using lines from some of my favorite carols for titles this month. Bonus points for you if you can name all the carols. If you save up enough of those points, you can get you a big fat cup o' squat.

Sorry. Sunshine bonus points just aren't worth what they used to be.

***************************
Anyway, on to my point - I'm quite sure that I had one...

Melody from Merrie Melody tagged me - And I'm just now getting around to it!!

Here are the rules:
• Link to the person who tagged you and post the rules in your post.
• Share seven random/weird facts about yourself.
• Tag seven random people and link to their blogs.
• Let each person know they’ve been tagged by leaving a comment in their blog.

So here goes:

1)I joined a sorority in college (the first time). I pledged, but wasn't initiated. I spent NO time studying, and took my butt back home after one semester to go to community college.

2) Speaking of the first time I was in college, I started out as an Advertising Art major. I wanted to make TV commercials. What I didn't consider was that Art may not have been the best major for me, considering I can't draw a conclusion.

3) I love to eat bananas and fritos - together

4) I grew up eating rabbit on a regular basis. We were weird about it, too. We would call our meals 'Lucky and dumplins' or 'Chicken Surprise'. If you ever had dinner at my house while we were in elementary school, there's a good chance we had rabbit for dinner - and didn't tell you about it. I'm really sorry about that.

5) I am addicted to crunching ice, popping bubble wrap, and Dr. Pepper. (Not necessarily in that order)

6) I once worked in a strip club for four months. As a bartender.

7) I played bass drum on the drum line in high school... For the last two years, anyway. The year before that I was on the color guard, and my Freshman year, I just marched my clarinet.

I tag:

I'm going to be a rebel - If you are interested in being tagged, consider it done. Leave a comment letting me know if you want to play along. I would love to read your list!

Christmas is coming...

noreply@blogger.com (Eternal Sunshine) — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 20:13:00 +0000

I got a present in the mail from my Secret Santa. Georgie, at Decisionally Challenged had the idea to do a Secret Santa Soiree this year. So, I signed up - and my present arrived a few weeks ago, but I'm a super huge slacker, and I forgot to bring my camera home, then I forgot to bring my presents to work, then I couldn't find the cord that would put the pictures on the computer and on and on and on.

FINALLY, I got my act together, and I present for your viewing pleasure, my Secret Santa gifts!

There was this little package.

And inside was this

And these (My favorite candies!!!)

And these. (It's a Salt & Pepper shaker set - I collect them)

And this book.
I've only just begun to read it, but so far, I really like it!!

And this candle
(It's hard to see in the picture, but it's a super yummy Sparkling Cranberry candle!)

Thank you, Secret Santa!! I LOVE my presents!

=====================
Coming soon: My dear friend Melody has tagged me AND given me an award. I will be posting both of those soon, I promise!!

=====================
Mater asked a about a week ago, what I wanted for Christmas, and I responded "I have everything I want, Baby, your daddy, you and your brothers and your sister. I don't need anything at all.

He said "Mom, you always say that"

Because it's always true, my love...

Conversations, Part - whatever...

noreply@blogger.com (Eternal Sunshine) — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 13:56:00 +0000

The boys have been in rare form lately, so I figured I had better share a bit of this stuff before I forget it.

Yesterday, while having lunch with my parents, we were commenting on their old dog, Killer, and I said something about how he probably has Dogheimer's, since he appeared to have forgotten where the door was for a minute.

Monkey: "What's Dog-miner's?"

Mater: "I have Peopleheimer's!!"

===========================

Thursday, on the way home from Cub Scouts (We had a "Go See It" at the Firehouse), Monkey and I were talking about Christmas, lights and trees, etc.

Monkey: Do stores have to put up Christmas trees, too?

Me: Well, no one HAS to put up a tree, they just want to.

Monkey: But if you don't put up a tree, you don't get presents!!

Me: Well, Monkey, you know some people don't celebrate Christmas...

Monkey: They don't? (This was astonishing to him)

(This is the point, where I went into a brief discussion of other religions and holiday celebrations - My knowledge of some of these is quite limited, but for whatever reason, I felt the need to pass on my "wisdom" I'm sorry if I get any of this wrong, I tried to keep my discussion with him as general as possible, so as not to misinform him, since I quickly realized that with an inquisitive child like Monkey, I was in over my head!!))

Me: Well, Jewish people celebrate Hanukkah (or is it Chanukah??), they don't do Christmas, instead of one day of Christmas like we have, they have 8 days of Hanukkah, and sometimes they do 8 days of presents.

Monkey: EIGHT DAYS?? (At his point, I can hear his wheels turning) I want 8 days of presents...

Me: And some people celebrate Kwanzaa, and some people don't celebrate Christmas at all.

Monkey: (Still stuck on the concept of 8 days of presents) I want Santa to bring me presents for 8 days!

Me: Oh, not Santa Claus, their holiday is celebrated with their family and friends. (And here's where it went horribly wrong) Jewish people don't believe in Santa Claus.

Monkey: Oh well, then I think Mater Jones (A boy on the bus who has the same name as Mater, and who told the boys that there was no Santa Claus, or Tooth Fairy) must be Jewish then, cause' he doesn't believe in Santa Claus, either.

Molding young minds, that's what I'm best at.

Please send all complaints to:

no.idea.what.im.saying@talking.out.my.butt.com
Happy Holidays, and have a good week.

Strange things are afoot at the Circle K

noreply@blogger.com (Eternal Sunshine) — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 16:29:00 +0000

Or not.
(I just love throwing movie quotes into my everyday conversations.)

Anyway...

Time for another giveaway post.

This one is a big one, and you will be glad you got in on it!!

Head on over to The Lil' Peanut Patch and enter their 12 Days of Christmas at the Patch. THey are having TWELVE (Yes, 12) days of giveaways, and two lucky people will each get to win half of those prizes. Yes, you heard that right. One person will win 6 prizes, and one will win the other six prizes.

One catch - You have to enter ALL the giveaways to be entered, so be sure to get moving over to the The Lil' Peanut Patch to read the rules, enter and win!!

In other news...

There have been lots of goings-on in the Land of Eternal Sunshine lately. I took off all of last week (and most of the weeks prior -heehee) for the Holiday and to rejuvenate my mind (or something), but I will be getting back on the ball very soon. I have awards to mention (and give away), contests that have been won, a very spectacular Secret Santa shimpent arrived, and more!!

Oh - and my nephew, the Tater-Tot (formerly known as N, or Nigel) informed my Sister that he wanted to make Christmas gifts. She's asked for ideas, and I haven't come up with anything age-appropriate yet. Please head on over to her blog and leave some ideas. They will be most appreciated!

I'll leave you with this - A little late for Thanksgiving, but appropriate for the time of year.

Sunday, we were at the airport to pick up Possum from his vacation to his Mom's house. As Monkey, Mater and I were waiting for Budman to go get him, I pointed out a soldier walking through the terminal. Monkey shouted out "Hi Soldier!!" The man smiled and waved at the boys, and we smiled back. Then Monkey shouted "Thank you for all you do for our country!" I got a little teary-eyed... Sometimes my kids really surprise me.

I don't know if the young man heard Monkey's thank you, but I hope so, and I want to say a special thanks to all of our servicemen and women.

FINALLY - The Weekend Update

noreply@blogger.com (Eternal Sunshine) — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 21:02:00 +0000

Just not the one I promised three or four weekends ago.

First things first: (It seems like I say that a lot...) The work drama. My company informed me Tuesday that my position is being eliminated, and my duties are being transferred to our corporate office several states away (Not just me, they're doing the same with all 3 of the positions in our little corner of the department). I will be staying on until Mid-January to assist with the transition, then will be (hopefully) starting another position. I'm not sure yet whether there will be another job for me with this company, or if I will be working elsewhere. (Actually, there's a lot that I'm not sure of at the moment)

This was somewhat of a shock for us, but I'm really OK with it. I've been feeling overwhelmed and a little burned out in this position, so I think a change will do me some good. I also know that God will take care of me.

On to the weekend. Friday, I took off work to accompany Monkey's class on a field trip to Casa Manana Theatre. It was a lot of fun, and I enjoyed it immensely. When I took off to go on Mater's field trip last month, I didn't know any of the other mothers, and felt a little out of place. Fortunately, Monkey has FOUR other Cub Scouts in his class, and all their mothers came along, so I had a few familiar faces, and people to talk to. Not that you would know it, but I'm a little shy, and it's hard for me to jump in and strike up conversations. It was a fun day, even if we did eat lunch in the freezing cold* at the park. Brrr.

That afternoon, I took Possum to the airport so that he could go see his mother for the holiday.

Saturday was what the boys and I call a pajama day. They stayed in their footie PJs all day, we played and watched TV, played Cranium Cadoo and snuggled under blankets A LOT. Saturday afternoon, they put on clothes and BEGGED to play outside. It had warmed a little, so they got to play until dark. Oh - and I did lots of laundry. You're jealous, aren't you? Of the glamorous life I lead...

Sunday, the boys skipped off to church with Grandma, and Budman and I headed to the grocery store. When we got back to the house, Monkey headed off for his "best friend's" birthday party, and Budman and I made 10 jars of dill pickles in the afternoon, Mater and I played A LOT of board games, and did some puzzles. I also (finally) got to work on Christmas Presents. I'm making a lot of gifts this year, I can't tell you what I made, though, because SOME PEOPLE who read this blog might see it.

So, there it is, my weekend in a nutshell, not terribly interesting, but then that's life!!

*Yes, I know that to you ladies and gentlemen up North, I'm a gigantic wussy, but it was 37 degrees when i left the house that morning, and it did not warm up much all morning, in fact, it never got above 48 all day.

When it rains...

noreply@blogger.com (Eternal Sunshine) — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 14:17:00 +0000

In addition to the blog changing/moving ~~fiasco~~ ~~debaucle~~ adventure, I'm dealing with a crappeload of work drama, I promise I will update and such soon.

In the meantime, not to sound like a broken record, but...

Don't forget about my friend Holly, Anglophile Football Fanatic. She's donating her November ad revenue to Food for the Poor. Every click counts, so do me a big favor, and help her out!

Day FOUR of her giveaway is today, and people, it just keeps getting better. There will only be one more this week, so get yourself on over there, and get in on the fun...

Please head on over to her place, and enter her contest.

noreply@blogger.com (Eternal Sunshine) — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 18:27:00 +0000

Stop by to visit Copper's Fox, she's got a funny story about my nephew, Tater-tot, and Mater.

Also, don't forget about my friend Holly, Anglophile Football Fanatic. She's donating her November ad revenue to Food for the Poor. Every click counts, so do me a big favor, and help her out!

Day TWO of her giveaway is today, and people, it is awesome. There will a giveaway every day this week.

Please head on over to her place, and enter her contest.

Giveaway Alert!!

noreply@blogger.com (Eternal Sunshine) — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 15:33:00 +0000

My dear friend Holly, of Anglophile Football Fanatic, is donating her November ad revenue to charity.

Food for the Poor, which I had never heard of until Holly began her drive this month, is a charity that provides, well, food for the poor, among other things. I highly reccomend visiting their website, they have some really terrific things in their gift catalog, as well as a greater description of what they do, and ways to help.

But, back on task here. Holly is having a week-long giveaway to go boost her efforts to raise money for her favorite charity.

Day one of the giveaway starts today, and there will be more every day this week. Please head on over to her place, and enter her contest. Or spend a little time reading about some of the funny things that happen in her world. Every click counts, so do me a big favor, and help her out!

Please check back everyday, this week, she will be giving away something everyday, and if I know Holly, it will be terrific!!

What are you waiting for?? Go!!

This is not the post you are looking for.

noreply@blogger.com (Eternal Sunshine) — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 21:08:00 +0000

Forget the weekend update. I don't even remember what I did two weekends ago, and it probably wasn't as exciting as whatever you guys had going on...

Anyway, you'll have to be patient with me for a bit longer, I'm planning some changes to the Empty Mind here, and until I'm finished, posting may be sparse!!

I'll try, though, I promise.

I haven't forgotten

noreply@blogger.com (Eternal Sunshine) — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 17:23:00 +0000

The weekend update is still coming, I've just been busy with other things...

Hang in there!!

And the winner is...

noreply@blogger.com (Eternal Sunshine) — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 01:30:00 +0000

Sorry it took me so long, I seriously underestimated how long it would take to cut out and fold all those comments. (Then my puter decided I didn't hold my mouth just right the FIRST time I typed this entire post out, and refused to save it - UGH)

Anyway, the comments all went into a bag, and Mater just chose a winner.

Without further ado, the winner of my Blogoversary give away, a $25 Gift card to JC Penney is:

cylis9, who said...

Good luck on the walk and thanks for the great giveaway!

Congratulations, cylis9, please email me your mailing address, so that I can send your prize!! Thanks to everyone who participated in my giveaway.

If the prize is not claimed within 3 days, I will choose another winner.

Also, I promised to donate all October revenue to the Alzheimer's Association. I just checked my report, and I am proud to say that I will be sending them a check for $20! Thank you to everyone who helped out. I appreciate it more than you can know.

Who am I??

noreply@blogger.com (Eternal Sunshine) — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 14:10:00 +0000

OK, taking care of old business first. The giveaway for my Blogoversary ends today at noon, CDT. If you haven't already entered, get on over there quick. I am hoping to post the winner tomorrow.

I am still donating my October revenue to the Alzheimer's Association, and will post the total for that sometime today or tomorrow.

Now, on to the new business

I found a new blog recently, Why are You Stalking Me?. As I was reading through past posts, there was a quiz, and I just had to take it.

I think it's pretty spot on as far as describing me.. There were only two questions, and I figured there was no way they could come up with something good off two questions, but - well, just see for yourself...

Your result for Are You a Jackie or a Marilyn? Or Someone Else? Mad Men-era Female Icon Quiz...

You Are an Audrey!

You are an Audrey -- "I am at peace"

Audreys are receptive, good-natured, and supportive. They seek union with others and the world around them.

How to Get Along with Me

* If you want me to do something, how you ask is important. I especially don't like expectations or pressure

* I like to listen and to be of service, but don't take advantage of this

* Listen until I finish speaking, even though I meander a bit

* Give me time to finish things and make decisions. It's OK to nudge me gently and nonjudgmentally

* Ask me questions to help me get clear

* Tell me when you like how I look. I'm not averse to flattery

* Hug me, show physical affection. It opens me up to my feelings

* I like a good discussion but not a confrontation

* Let me know you like what I've done or said

* Laugh with me and share in my enjoyment of life

What I Like About Being an Audrey

* being nonjudgmental and accepting

* caring for and being concerned about others

* being able to relax and have a good time

* knowing that most people enjoy my company; I'm easy to be around

* my ability to see many different sides of an issue and to be a good mediator and facilitator

* my heightened awareness of sensations, aesthetics, and the here and now

* being able to go with the flow and feel one with the universe

What's Hard About Being an Audrey

* being judged and misunderstood for being placid and/or indecisive

* being critical of myself for lacking initiative and discipline

* being too sensitive to criticism; taking every raised eyebrow and twitch of the mouth personally

* being confused about what I really want

* caring too much about what others will think of me

* not being listened to or taken seriously

Audreys as Children Often

* feel ignored and that their wants, opinions, and feelings are unimportant

* tune out a lot, especially when others argue

* are "good" children: deny anger or keep it to themselves

Audreys as Parents

* are supportive, kind, and warm

* are sometimes overly permissive or nondirective

Take Are You a Jackie or a Marilyn? Or Someone Else? Mad Men-era Female Icon Quiz at HelloQuizzy

First order of business

noreply@blogger.com (Eternal Sunshine) — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:34:00 +0000

Well, first things first. I hope that you read Tuesday's post and headed over to Rachel's house to enter her giveaway and click her pages (It's OK, that sounds dirtier than it is) in order to help her in her quest to fight Breast Cancer.

You did? Good, now go again. it's OK, we'll wait here for you.

2nd order of business, is that my baby sister (HA! She's taller than me!!) has FINALLY decided to blog, and I want you all to go check her out, because 1.) she's my sister, and I love her and 2.) She's WAY funnier than I am. But, I'm only going to tell you her link if you promise not to go leave me for her... Well, now that's settled, I can give you directions over to her place. Coppers Fox. I'll be helping her get settled in at her new home, and like I said, she's super terrific, so you'll want to come back and visit her often.

Next, we have a little cuteness from Monkey. Sorry, to my Plurky friends, you've already heard this, but it's adorable, so you'll just have to deal - or you can skip to the next paragraph, if you feel the need.

Last night, while Monkey was rolling around on the floor like a wild, well, Monkey

Monkey: "Mom, when I grow up, I'm going to join the US Army"
Me: "You are?"
Monkey: "Yep, I'm going to fight for our freedom"
Me: "wow..."
Monkey: "Yep, I'm going to leave my family to protect our country"
Me: "Wow, Monkey, that awesome!"

I don't know where he got this, and the thought of my little baby leaving his Mommy to fight for the country, while admirable, is terrifying to said Mommy. Thankfully, I know the Army won't take him until he's at least 10... Kidding.

In other news, he lost his FIRST tooth yesterday at school. The nurse gave him a certificate and a little treasure chest to keep it in, and the Tooth Fairy came last night and left him $2. (First teeth are worth more, she won't be quite so generous next time.)

Mater went to bed early last night, and woke with a tummy ache this morning, no fever, but the little guy stayed home from school today - just in case... I'm hoping he's feeling better for Halloween. it would break his heart if he had to miss out on the fun!

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And, as usual, I must remind you that I am still donating my October revenue to the Alzheimer's Association. And don't forget to enter the giveaway for my Blogoversary! You have until October 31...

Save the Ta-Tas

noreply@blogger.com (Eternal Sunshine) — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:42:00 +0000

This month, my dear friend Rachel @ From the Land of Monkeys and Princesses is raising awareness for Breast Cancer, and donating her October revenue to that cause. (I may have mentioned this before...)

Well, now, she's having a super giveaway and you need to go over there and check it out. There are LOTS of terrific prizes, (I've even thrown a small prize into the mix) and I'm sure there's at least one that you want to win. Even if you're not interested in the giveaway, please hop on over to Rachel's place and take a look around. All monies earned in the month of October will be donated to Breast Cancer Research

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And, as usual, I must remind you that I am still donating my October revenue to the Alzheimer's Association.

And don't forget to enter

the giveaway for my Blogoversary! You have until October 31...

Weekend Update - short version.

noreply@blogger.com (Eternal Sunshine) — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 14:46:00 +0000

I could not even begin to tell you all about the weekend, it was too crazy - so I'll go with this:

And this:

That's what Budman and I did on Sunday. We are now finished with ALL the Halloween costumes for the family.

YAY!!

Now I can start thinking about Thanksgiving.

I am still donating my October revenue to the Alzheimer's Association.

And don't forget to enter the giveaway for my Blogoversary! You have until October 31...

Opposites, wondering and musings...

noreply@blogger.com (Eternal Sunshine) — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:55:00 +0000

If the opposite of black is white...

What's the opposite of Red?
What's the opposite of Green?
What's the opposite of Purple?
What's the opposite of Brown?

The funny thing is, when I asked these questions to myself, an answer popped in to my head instantly for each of them. I'll let you ponder it yourself, though, without the interference of my opinion.

Last night was Cub Scouts night. I suck, I have so many pictures, and I really want to do a picture post, but I'm not comfortable putting pictures of other peoples' kids on the Internet, so I'll need to figure something out there, before I can post the tale...

Conversations with Mater:

Mater: Mom, it smells like Butt in here!!

Mater: Mom, Monkey's attackling me!"

Conversations with Monkey:

Monkey: "I'm goin' to town here, Mom!" (while drawing the coversheet for his Cub Scout scrapbook)

Monkey: "Mom, I'm keeping my eye on you!"

This weekend will be spent finishing our Halloween costumes, I really hope I can get them done. I'm still debating whether I want to wear my costume to work or not next Friday. We are allowed to, and will have a contest, but it's going to be a pain to work in all day... Hmmm... Will give it more thought.

Since Halloween is not over yet, I am still in denial about the approach of Christmas. Do NOT tell me how you finished your shopping in March, or how you're already starting on shopping for NEXT Christmas, I will hunt you down. I'll get there, the same way I always do... gradually!

First, I have to get into the Thanksgiving spirit, which involves me planning an elaborate menu, and all of us eating until we explode. Then I will be ready to think about Christmas. After I clean my family off the ceiling.

Have a terrific weekend. I'll leave you with this one - What is the opposite of puce?

I am still donating my October revenue to the Alzheimer's Association.

And don't forget to enter the giveaway for my Blogoversary! You have until October 31...

Once Again...

noreply@blogger.com (Eternal Sunshine) — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 12:00:00 +0000

I am again participating in "It's Not Me, It's You" from Holly at June Cleaver Nirvana.

She's asking "What post would you want your readers to read if they could only read one? She's set up a Mr. Linky at her blog, so go check it out...

Here's Mine: Weekend Update - Mother's Day edition

Go take a peek, and don't forget to head over to Holly's to read more great posts.

I am still donating my October revenue to the Alzheimer's Association.

And don't forget to enter the giveaway for my Blogoversary! You have until October 31...